Co-evolution of the host pathogen interaction between Leptosphaeria maculans and Brassica species

Abstract:: Blackleg disease, caused by the fungus Leptospheria maculans, is the most important disease of Brassica crops world-wide. The newly available genome sequence for Brassica and L. maculans provide the resources to study the co-evolution of this plant and pathogen. We aim to apply a novel genetic approach to identify the genes underlying this plant-pathogen interaction, and assess their prevalence in different geographic and agronomic conditions. An understanding of the co-evolution of genes responsible for virulence and resistance will lead to improved plant protection strategies for Brassica canola and provide a model to understand plant-pathogen interactions in other major Australian crops.
Grant type:: ARC Discovery Projects
Funded by:: Australian Research Council

The University of Queensland